Job Title:
Production Superintendent
Company: The Planet Group
Location: El Dorado, AR
Created: 2026-05-08
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description:
Production Superintendent (Acid & Nitrates Operations)Location: El Dorado, AR Compensation: $130,000-$150,000 base salary + 20% annual bonusSchedule: Onsite, 5 days per weekRelocation & Benefits: Comprehensive relocation and benefits package availableLevel: Senior Operations Leadership (Plant Manager-Level Scope)The OpportunityThis is a rare opportunity to step into a senior operations leadership role with broad responsibility over critical chemical production assets. The Production Superintendent will have direct influence on how the organization operates"”there is flexibility to challenge the status quo, implement improvements, and help shape the future structure of the plant.This role is ideal for a proven operations leader who thrives in complex manufacturing environments, can hold teams accountable, and is motivated by the opportunity to grow into a General Manager role within approximately two yearsImportant note: This position is based in a remote, rural location. Successful candidates must be fully committed to relocating and building their life in the community.Role OverviewThe Production Superintendent is accountable for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of nitric acid and ammonium nitrate production units within a large, continuous chemical manufacturing facility (~200 employees).You will provide leadership to shift supervisors, process engineers, and operators while maintaining strict compliance with safety, environmental, and process safety requirements. Although this is not a pure technical SME role, strong problem?solving skills and sound operational judgment are critical.Direct reports: ~7Total indirect oversight: ~120Key ResponsibilitiesSafety & Environmental LeadershipEnsure full compliance with OSHA, EPA, and Process Safety Management (PSM) requirementsLead risk reduction efforts including MOCs, PHAs, incident investigations, and corrective actionsPromote a strong, visible safety culture through field leadership and coachingOperational PerformanceMeet production targets while maintaining product quality and environmental standardsTrack and improve KPIs related to rates, efficiency, reliability, and emissionsIdentify and remove operational constraints using structured problem?solving methodsPartner closely with maintenance and engineering to reduce downtime and improve reliabilityLeadership & Team DevelopmentLead and develop shift supervisors, operators, and engineering support staffBuild and maintain operator qualification, certification, and training programsDrive accountability, performance management, and succession planningServe as a strong people leader capable of influencing across all levels of the plantTechnical Oversight & TroubleshootingAct as the primary operational authority during abnormal situations and process upsetsSupport capital projects, turnarounds, and longer?term improvement initiativesEnsure operating procedures and documentation reflect current best practicesContinuous ImprovementLead or participate in root cause investigations and ensure sustainable fixesSupport plant?wide initiatives focused on cost reduction, throughput, and optimizationHelp modernize and improve operational discipline where structure is still evolvingQualificationsRequired / PreferredBachelor's degree required; Engineering degree strongly preferred8-15+ years of experience in chemical manufacturing or complex industrial operationsPrior leadership experience overseeing operations personnel in a continuous process environmentStrong understanding of PSM and regulatory complianceExperience with nitric acid, ammonium nitrate, or similar processes preferredProven ability to lead teams, make decisions under pressure, and communicate effectivelyLeadership ProfileComfortable operating at a Plant Manager-level scopeConfident holding teams accountable while building trust and engagementWilling to challenge existing practices and drive meaningful changeInterested in long?term growth into a broader general management roleWork EnvironmentIndustrial manufacturing setting with exposure to chemicals, dust, heat, noise, and operating equipmentAbility to climb ladders and stairs and wear required PPEMust be able to lift up to 25 lbs as neededOnsite presence requiredEEM